'Bachelor' Chris Soules Splits From Whitney Bischoff

The couple, who got engaged during the 19th season finale of "The Bachelor" earlier this year, have officially called it quits. "Bachelor" creator Mike Fleiss tweeted out the news on Thursday, writing that it was "a sad day" for those involved with the show.

A rep for Soules confirmed the break-up in a statement, saying, "Whitney Bischoff and Chris Soules have mutually and amicably decided to end their engagement. They part with nothing but respect and admiration for one another and will continue to be supportive friends. They wish to thank everyone who has supported them through this journey."

"Not long after the show's March finale, when Soules gave Bischoff a 4-carat Neil Lane rock, rumors began to circulate that their made-for-tv romance was not as touchy-feely as it seemed," EW reports. "In the finale, it seemed clear that Soules' preference was for another contestant, Becca Tilley."